Matt Targett has extensive experience, having played for clubs such as Newcastle United, Southampton, Fulham, and Aston Villa. However, a Championship return could be on the cards as Middlesbrough and Derby County circle.

Middlesbrough had the full-back or wing-back on loan for 2025/26, with Matt Targett scoring four goals and providing four assists in 45 Championship and play-off games while on loan from Newcastle United. That includes one against Derby County back in November as well.

They add to his goal and two assists in 21 Championship games with Fulham in 2017/18, but Targett has primarily played in the Premier League since making his debut at St. Mary’s for Southampton.

In 164 Premier League appearances, he managed three goals and 10 assists but he was not in Eddie Howe’s plans for the current season after joining Newcastle back in January 2022 from Aston Villa on an initial loan.

A player of his calibre and experience is certain to have many suitors in the Championship, with Middlesbrough and Derby County expressing interest in Targett, according to an exclusive report from Football League World.

Newcastle United make a choice on Matt Targett as Derby and Borough look to move.

Following his loan spell with Newcastle, Targett signed a four-year contract with the club for about £15 million in the summer. He went on to play 47 games for the Magpies, including two in the Champions League.

Targett, who had fallen out of favour and struggled with injuries, joined Borough on loan for the final season of his contract with the Magpies.

It has subsequently been revealed that Newcastle has allowed him to leave, which means Derby and Middlesbrough can recruit the defender for free this summer. Other clubs could yet be keen to strike a deal for someone of his experience.

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Newcastle have announced their released and retained lists, with Kieran Trippier and Emil Krafth leaving the club when their contracts expired, along with Targett, John Ruddy, and Max Thompson. Aaron Ramsdale is headed back to St. Mary’s too.

Targett was promoted out of the Championship with Fulham in 2018 through the play-offs, which Derby and Middlesbrough are aiming for in 2027.

Matt Targett’s decision is not easy between Middlesbrough and Derby County.

Now that Targett has decided to leave Newcastle permanently, a return to Middlesbrough may appear to be the more natural choice considering the success of his loan term. He is familiar with the club, the supporters. and the expectations, as well as Kim Hellberg’s demanding style of play in possession.

While Borough understands exactly what they would get from an experienced Championship left-back. When it comes to promotion, familiarity can be a significant advantage. However, if John Eustace regards Targett as an important component of his plans, he may be able to make a persuasive case for Derby County.

However, Middlesbrough appears to be the more likely destination given the player’s historical relationship and the club’s urgent goal. The other issue is that Derby defends their box more, which limits his ability as a more technical full-back.

That may encourage him to join Borough, but much will depend on playing time, salary, and where he believes he has the best chance of contending to get out of the Championship.